James Beard Onion Sandwich Recipes

JAMES BEARD'S ONION SANDWICH RECIPE:

Steps:

• Using a glass (I found that a shot glass works great) or a 2-inch round cookie cutter, cut out 2 to 3 bread rounds from each bread slice; discard trimmings or save to Make Homemade Bread Crumbs.
• Spread one side of each bread circle with a heavy layer of butter. Place a thin layer of sliced onions over the butter. Lightly season the onions with salt.
• Assemble the sandwiches with remaining bread slices, pressing lightly to make them adhere.
• Spread some mayonnaise around the outside rim of each sandwich round. Roll the rim of each sandwich in the minced chives or parsley to coat.
• Serve immediately or cover and refrigerator for a few hours.
• Makes 16 to 24 sandwich rounds.
• Making Sandwiches Ahead of Time:
• If you need to make tea sandwiches in advance and need to keep them from drying out, cover them loosely with a sheet of wax paper and then place a damp kitchen towel over the wax paper (never place a damp towel directly on top of the bread because the sandwiches will become soggy). Refrigerate.
• When ready to serve, remove from refrigerator. Uncover sandwiches just before serving.

ONION SANDWICH

Steps:

• Using a 1 1/2-inch cutter, cut 24 rounds from the bread and arrange in 12 pairs. Spread each round with mayonnaise.
• Slice the onions through the equator, evenly and thinly, and put a slice that fits the bread on half the bread rounds. Salt lightly, then cover with a second round of bread.
• When sandwiches are assembled, spread remaining mayonnaise on a piece of parchment paper, and have the chopped herbs ready in a bowl.
• Hold a sandwich, and roll the edge in mayonnaise, then in the chopped herbs, covering the edge. Cover and chill for about 1 hour and up to 6 hours before serving.